Description
This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef is a rich, indulgent pasta dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender rigatoni is coated in a velvety garlic butter sauce with melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and hearty ground beef. Quick, comforting, and packed with flavor, this cheesy pasta is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Cream & Cheese: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked beef to the skillet, then toss in the rigatoni. Stir to coat everything in the creamy garlic butter sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce.
- Season & Serve: Add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
- Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella or a touch of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or thyme enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
